Five steps to writing a good grant application

1.   Prepare

• Register your organisation early in order to access the project application form.
• Start on your project application early in the application period.
• Have a thorough understanding of your project.
• Read the project assessment selection criteria thoroughly.
• Consider how your project will address the criteria and how you will support this with some form of evidence.

2.  Plan

• Work out your project timelines – be realistic and ensure they are within the acceptable time period for the grant program.
• Prepare a realistic budget. Don’t ask for too little or too much. Check that all budget items are eligible under the grant criteria.
• Identify the community groups that will benefit from your project.
• Source any documents that are required to be attached with your application.

3.  Write

• Complete the application as fully as possible.
• Make financial information as accurate as possible.
• Write clearly and succinctly.
• Don’t exceed word limits.
• Attach all the required supporting documentation.
• Don’t include documents that are not requested.
• You are able to work on your project submission over several sittings so that you are able to check information and improve your application before you submit it.

4.  Check

• Show your on-line application to someone who has never seen the project or heard you talk about it.
• After reading it – ask them to explain it to you.
• Did they pick up the main points you wanted to make?
• Did they know what you were asking for?
• Refine your application and repeat this step until the other person can clearly and easily describe the project back to you.

5.  Submit

• Submit before or on time as late applications are not accepted.
• Submit in accordance with the instructions.
• Keep a copy of the notification that your application has been received and any identification code that is provided for future reference.